Skinner can bring back accountability

In today's world of carpet-bagging politicians, there are few men that are willing to stand up and be counted. Even fewer who will hold his peers accountable for their actions and hold himself to a higher standard.

As a society, we seem to have accepted that our municipal leaders are more politicians, using these local positions to feed their own egos or to pad their own resumes on their way to bigger and better things. Lost amongst the rhetoric is the concept that our leaders are first and foremost to walk the life of public service for the sake of service alone. And from the giving of one's self, maybe, just maybe, one can not only reap the joy of helping not only his neighbors, but a larger circle of people as well.

Steve Skinner is one man whom I have met and known that seems to understand that he would be blessed to be chosen to walk a life of servitude. Not only does he speak to such ideals, he has a successful track record. In my estimation, his tenure as president and treasurer over two terms on the Round Lake Library Board shows his ability to make hard and possibly unpopular decisions to achieve long-term financial viability. His stance early on environmental issues proves his willingness to think outside the box and champion a cause before it becomes "trendy." He has worked with the Democratic organization going back to the late '80s, and was a visible party supporter even when being a Democrat was unpopular in Lake County.

It is my opinion that the qualities of leadership and servitude, and the ability to stand up for what he believes in the face of opposition and his innovative thinking make Steve well suited to serve as the Lake County Board representative from District 1.

If you are concerned about spending at the county level, about how you are taxed, about the environmental impact of development and are tired of our growing traffic woes, these are all issues with which Mr. Skinner is very familiar. Do yourselves and the rest of the county a favor. Restore accountability and service to the Lake County board. Vote for Steve Skinner.

Al Villasenor

Round Lake